What is the recommended floor space per reader in a school library?

Approximately 2.4 square meters per reader in the reading room (Clause 5.2.1).

What is the standard height for a library book stack?

The height of a book stack should not exceed 2.2 meters for easy accessibility (Clause 7.2).

What is the minimum recommended lighting level for reading tables?

A minimum of 300 lux on the working plane (Table 3 / Clause 6.1).

How much space should be between rows of bookshelves?

A minimum of 1.35 m for main gangways and 0.90 m for secondary gangways (Clause 5.3.2).

IS 8338

: 1976

Recommendations relating to primary elements in the design of school library buildings

CurrentSpecializedGuidelinesBIMArchitectural · Planning, Housing and Pre-fabricated Construction

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This standard provides recommendations for the planning and design of school library buildings. It covers key elements such as location, orientation, space allocation for different functions like reading areas and stack rooms, and environmental factors including lighting and ventilation to create a functional learning environment.

Recommendations relating to primary elements in the design of school library buildings

Quick Reference Values

Reading area per reader2.4 sq m

Book capacity per single-faced shelf unit (900mm wide)approx. 200-250 volumes

Standard height of book stack2.2 m

Minimum width of main gangway between stacks1.35 m

Minimum width of secondary gangway between stacks0.90 m

Minimum illumination level for reading areas300 lux

Book capacity per sq m of stack room areaapprox. 160 volumes

Practical Notes

These are guidelines, not mandatory requirements; they should be adapted based on the specific school's enrollment, curriculum, and budget.

The design should be flexible to accommodate future needs, such as the integration of digital media and collaborative learning spaces.

Special attention to Clause 6 on lighting is crucial to create a comfortable reading environment and minimize eye strain.